Born on August 25, 1933, in Ecru, Mississippi, Helen grew up in a close-knit community that shaped her warm, gracious spirit. She graduated from Ecru High School and went on to attend Mississippi State College for Women (now MUW), laying the foundation for a life dedicated to learning and nurturing others.
Helen married her first husband, Robert Edward "Bob" Gorman Sr. after she graduated from college when he was a pilot in the air force. Tragically, Bob passed away when Helen was just 28, leaving her to raise Robert Gorman Jr., Patrick Gorman, Kathy Gorman Conlee, and Alan Gorman as a single mother in Columbus, Mississippi. With unwavering strength and devotion, she poured her heart into her family, becoming the devoted mom her children and grandchildren would always cherish.
As a dedicated kindergarten teacher for 15 years, Helen brought joy, patience, and creativity to countless young lives, delighting in their curiosity and growth. She was a lifelong learner herself, always eager to explore new ideas and experiences.
Helen was a classy southern lady with refined tastes—she adored classical music and the arts. She loved to travel and once famously declared that any place she hadn't visited was worth whatever it cost to get there. After her children were grown and married, she married Kenneth Thomas, and the couple enjoyed many wonderful travel adventures together, creating memories that warmed her heart for years to come. She often told the members of her family to “make some memories.”
As a woman of deep faith, Helen found great comfort in her relationship with Jesus. Her family takes solace in knowing she is now in glory with Him.
Helen often joked that she wanted to be buried with a glass of iced tea in her hand—a lighthearted reflection of her joyful spirit. Though she has left this world, her warmth, faith, and love remain with all who knew her. She will be dearly missed and forever remembered.
Helen was preceded in death by her first husband, Robert Edward Gorman Sr.; her second husband, Kenneth Thomas; her brother, Dale Graddy; and her sisters, Fann Graddy Bost and Ann Graddy Jackson.
She is survived by her four children: son Robert Gorman Jr. (Alice), son Patrick Gorman (Joni), daughter Kathy Gorman Conlee (Trey), and son Alan Gorman (Jan); seven grandchildren; and thirteen great-grandchildren, all of whom she loved deeply and who will carry her legacy of grace, humor, and love forward.
A graveside service will be held on Friday March 27th at 11:30 A.M., at Ecru Cemetery in Ecru, Mississippi.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the charity of your choice in Helen's memory.
Browning Funeral Home is honored to assist the Thomas family.
